The Ladder of Spiritual Success

Avoda Zara 20b

When Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzatto wrote his monumental work on ethics Mesillat Yesharim, he chose as the framework for the holy book that would inspire generations the beraita of Rabbi Pinchas ben Yair cited in our gemara. A step-by-step formula for spiritual development was there presented which culminated in Divine inspiration and resurrection.

The starting point in this formula is the study of Torah, which leads to caution in avoiding transgressions and to zealousness in performing mitzvot. Mesillat Yesharim elaborates only on the steps that follow Torah study, on the assumption that the need for such study is self-evident.

It is worth noting, however, how Rashi explains why Torah is the first step on the ladder to spiritual success. Through the involvement in Torah study, he writes, one begins this climb. In addition to such involvement, continues Rashi, there is the information one acquires in regard to what he may or may not do.

The message here is that the study of Torah is both a spiritual experience that purifies the soul and a source of information on where to apply that purity in climbing that spiritual ladder.

What the Sages Say

"Some people gain their place in the World-to-Come in one moment while for others it takes many years."

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